THE SANTA MONICA GUIDE TO ROMANTIC RESTAURANTS
Santa Monica is one of the best locations for a romantic date at a romantic restaurant. After all, what’s more romantic than dinner by the sea? The ocean views and warm breeze just shout “special occasion.” Here’s a quick guide to Santa Monica’s most romantic restaurants.
What’s the best anniversary restaurant in Santa Monica?
Whether it’s your first anniversary or your 50th, a dinner at Giorgio Baldi will mark the occasion with style.
Giorgio Baldi
Topping the list of the best anniversary restaurants near Santa Monica, Giorgio Baldi offers a truly unique experience. In business for thirty years, this family-managed restaurant is all about tradition and authenticity. Treat your someone special to a four course dinner from salad to soup to entree and don’t forget dessert!
What’s the best Santa Monica restaurant with a view?
With so many great restaurants in Santa Monica it might come down to the view that makes or breaks it for you. Some like the ocean while others like the mountains, and some love the hustle bustle of a city. We chose Elephante as the restaurant with the best view. Here’s why.
Elephante
Depending on your definition of romantic, Elephante offers the best of both worlds. Maybe more date night than anniversary, you get a spectacular ocean view from its downtown location where you also feel the energy of the city. Grab a balcony seat and dine on a fabulous selection of craft cocktails and California cuisine. This might become your favorite restaurant whenever you’re in Santa Monica. It’s always fun, and always a party.
What’s the best date night restaurant in Santa Monica?
If you’re looking to take your honey out for a weekly date night, but still want something special, consider Forma on Montana Avenue.
Forma
The words “forma di formaggio” refer to the “whole cheese.” Well, Forma takes cheese to a new level. In fact, our favorite dish Cacio e Pepe is quite literally noodles spun around on a three foot wide block of cheese. The cheese block becomes a mixing bowl, pulling cheese into the noodles on every spin. Sure, you can also enjoy the short ribs, fish, wine, and any number of other pasta dishes — but if you’re a first time visitor? Order the Cacio e Pepe. (Oh, and to clarify: The giant block of cheese does not come to your table. They prepare your Cacio e Pepe in the cheese block, then plate it. Sorry, cheese maniacs.)
What’s the best fine dining restaurant in Santa Monica?
When it comes to strictly the food, Citrin might top the list of the best fine dining restaurants.
Citrin
Owned by culinary expert Josiah Citrin, a two-star Michelin chef, Citrin is amongst the finest in fine dining. Check out their seasonal a la carte menu or their prixe fixe menu, both available for an outdoor dining experience in the garden. To be clear, we consider Citrin to be a special place for special occasions. So spend wisely, because choosing to have dinner here might mean forgoing your kid’s college fund.
How to get reservations at trendy restaurants?
The best way to get a reservation is to ask your hotel concierge, if you’re visiting or staycationing in Santa Monica. That said, all of the restaurants mentioned above do offer online reservations through Resy, OpenTable, or other apps. However, some spots might even require that you call 30 days in advance to secure a table. For example, to get the exact time and table you want at a spot like Nobu Malibu, locals might call first thing in the morning, thirty days in advance. Isn’t that so LA?
Staying at Hotel Oceana?
Contact our concierge to make a reservation at either of our guests-only restaurants to enjoy a truly bespoke culinary experience, rivaling the best in the world.
Phone: (310) 393-0486 or 1-800-777-0758
Email: Info_sm@hoteloceana.com
More Santa Monica Guides
The Santa Monica Guide to Ocean View Hotels
The Wellness Guide to Santa Monica
The Guide to Luxury Car Rentals in Santa Monica
The Honeymoon Guide to Santa Monica
The Staycation Guide to Southern California
About Oceana of Santa Monica
Oceana of Santa Monica is not just a world-class luxury hotel — it is a personally-curated experience uniquely tailored to each and every guest who stays with us. As a boutique hotel, we’re able to offer bespoke services and amenities that larger luxury hotels cannot, from the latest in private spa services, to A-list personal trainers, to exclusive outings and active adventures. Our cliffside oceanfront location offers both privacy and stunning views, and our lavishly-appointed suites are the most spacious and high-tech of any resort in Santa Monica. Our award-winning restaurants serve only our guests and their guests exclusively, offering some of the most beautifully-plated and high-end faire in all of Los Angeles. Whether you’re looking for the romantic getaway of a lifetime, a personal wellness retreat to recharge mind and body, or a family vacation that offers something for everyone, Oceana will design a flawlessly-personalized experience you just won’t find anywhere else. Call us today and let us know how we can create a truly unforgettable luxury experience for you and yours at our exclusive paradise-within-a-paradise.